Brookline Converts Library, Schools Into Fire, Police Stations

BROOKLINE, MA — After five firefighters tested positive for the new coronavirus and more than 40 others have had to be quarantined in Brookline, the town is converting three schools and a library into temporary satellite stations to help keep firefighters and police safe during the pandemic.

The town is converting its main public library and part of the Coolidge Corner School into satellite fire houses and the high school, the Baker School and separate part of the Coolidge Corner School to be used by the police department today, Fire Chief John Sullivan and Police Chief Andrew Lipson announced.

"We're doing every thing we can to keep them safe," said Sullivan.

In mid-March a firefighter tested positive for COVID-19 a few days later another one did and then another. Because the firefighters share living and eating spaces with eight to 10 others at the Babcock Station which houses two companies, the number of firefighters who went into quarantine reached about 44 at one point, according to the chief.

Firefighters have been cleared by health officials and have been returning to work and as of Wednesday all of those who were still in quarantine have been cleared. The department has added new protocols including wearing masks and personal protection equipment both out on call and also in the station. But the idea for the satellite stations came as a way to cut down in the number of firefighters who work together at any given time and help keep the spread of the virus at bay.

Now, with the satellite stations, should a firefighter come in contact with COVID-19, the number of those potentially exposed to it is cut in half, said Sullivan.

Both the Coolidge Corner School and the Library have garages where the fire apparatus fits, they both have access to showers and kitchens, he said. Wednesday, firefighters were set to move beds, radio chargers, computers to the temporary digs.

The firefighters understand the move, he said.

"They're not ideal amenities, but they're willing to adjust and make do to make everyone safe," said Sullivan. " And there are plenty of books to read at the library."

Both Lipson and Sullivan expressed gratitude for the accommodation.

"We're really very appreciative of the library, library board school committee and school department and staff for letting us utilize their facilities," said Sullivan. "Their willingness to open up their doors like this just shows the level of cooperation and empathy that is needed in these times."

As of Tuesday there were 80 people in Brookline who tested positive for the coronavirus, in addition, at least three town employees who don't live in town tested positive. The health department is monitoring another 167 who are in quarantine, but not showing symptoms.

Across the state, there were 15,202 people had tested positive for the virus as of Tuesday, and the death toll statewide rose to 356.

The school and library were already closed to the public until further notice. Firefighters are expected to begin using the library by mid-week.

"The health and safety of our first responders is essential," said Interim Superintendent Ben Lummis in a statement. "We want to be able to assist them in whatever capacity we can. Allocating satellite locations for the departments in our school buildings allows us to offer them the support they need to effectively practice social distancing. It's rare that we can return the effort and care they provide our students and employees during the school year, but we believe this is a way to give back to them in a way that protects them while they're protecting us."

Read more: Firefighter Tests Positive For Coronavirus - Patch

Patch reporter Jenna Fisher can be reached at Jenna.Fisher@patch.com or by calling 617-942-0474. Follow her on Twitter and Instagram (@ReporterJenna).